Saudi Scouts: Volunteer efforts to serve pilgrims in the Two Holy Mosques
In the heart of the holy sites, and with the influx of millions of pilgrims and visitors during religious seasons such as the holy month of Ramadan and the Hajj season, the “arms of mercy” stand out, represented by the young men and boys of the Saudi Arabian Scouts, who embody the most wonderful images of giving and dedication in serving the guests of God in the vicinity of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque.
More than 750 qualified scouts and scout leaders are deployed throughout the courtyards and corridors of the Two Holy Mosques, wearing their official uniforms, which have become a symbol of safety and assistance. Their duties range from guiding lost pilgrims and assisting the elderly and people with disabilities in navigating wheelchairs or providing physical support, to helping manage crowd flow in cooperation with security personnel, providing first aid, and distributing breakfast and water—all with a smile that reflects the genuine Saudi hospitality and spirit of volunteerism.
A lasting legacy of serving the guests of God
This noble humanitarian role is not a recent development, but rather an extension of a long tradition of volunteer work that the Saudi Arabian Scouts Association has upheld for decades. Since its inception, serving pilgrims has been an integral part of its identity and educational mission. Scouts participate annually in public service camps organized by the association in Mecca, Medina, and the holy sites, where they receive intensive training in first aid, crowd management, and intercultural communication, equipping them to provide professional and compassionate service.
National importance and a global cultural showcase
The importance of these efforts transcends the realm of seasonal work, representing a civilized image of the Kingdom to the world. Domestically, these contributions help achieve one of the goals of Saudi Vision 2030: to promote a culture of volunteerism and reach one million volunteers. They also instill in young people the values of social responsibility, leadership, and teamwork. Internationally, these humanitarian services leave a profound impact on millions of Muslims from around the globe, enhancing the positive image of the Kingdom as a nation that dedicates its material and human resources to ensuring the comfort and safety of pilgrims to the Two Holy Mosques.
Adapting technology to serve humanity
With the technological advancements the Kingdom is witnessing, scouting services are no longer limited to traditional methods. Technology has been harnessed to enhance operational efficiency, with scouts using smart applications and electronic maps to guide lost individuals accurately and quickly. They also rely on modern communication devices for immediate coordination among themselves and with other entities operating in the field. This integration of the genuine spirit of volunteerism with digital tools ensures the provision of a comprehensive and modern service befitting the sanctity of the place and time, contributing to a safe and accessible spiritual experience for pilgrims.
